rules of engagment?

so how exactly does one proceed from interested stranger to intimate friendship?

rules? strategy? opportunity? luck, looks, likes, love????

the only tip i've ever been given is that they like a challenge. i promise i can be that.

but how to engage the initial interest?

it bothers me that i even ask these questions because i don't want it to be neccesary for me to solicite attention. even with my recently quite blonde hair and my new affinity to bright colors i don't function with the intention of making people notice me.

but i do want him to notice me. to be interested. to pursue.

a little eye contact. a brief introduction. an odd joke. laughter. encounter finished.

it's nothing to go on.

but i feel so pent up about it. so utterly without influence on the situation.

and incredibly impatient.

everybody noticed the tall cowboy when he walked in. at least every single female.
there will be competition.

under my shallow attractions and frustrated impatience. i really am looking for a friend.

i'll shut up. i'll wait.

advice welcome.